Disney Dining Experience

Colin, how long did it take for you to get the card after ordering it? Ours expired and I need to order a new one before our May trip. Thanks!

Kim, you can pick up a temporary card at Epcot guest relations at the front of the park. Just call the DDE number and tell them you'd like a temporary card and that can ensure you can use it if it doesn't come in time

My card I just renewed, they sent me an email that said expect it to take 4-6 weeks for delivery, Well I got it in Feb.

However, I emailed and they had a "temp" one available for me by the next week, and they actually gave me an extra 2 months by getting a *temp* card because my card's expiration date isn't until end of March of next year!

However, I emailed and they had a "temp" one available for me by the next week, and they actually gave me an extra 2 months by getting a *temp* card because my card's expiration date isn't until end of March of next year!

Yep, I've gotten that too. Inevitably, you always get more than a year in reality, especially if you can get down in time to use your temp card. In fact, I'd recommend buying it just before a trip to ensure you maximize the time you can get for the money.

Rumor has it that the DDE will be making a major change...Possibly for 2008.

When using the DDE card an automatic 18% gratuity will be added to the bill.

I have mixed reaction to this rumor. I usually tip 15% to 18% anyway for average to good service, but if I receive poor service I might tip below 15%. I also think since this money is going directly to the server(s) I'm ok with it. If Disney was getting the money I might sing a different tune.

I'm not sure what would have prompted this rumored change except to make the DDE card costs more in line with the DDP changes for 2008.

the CM discount of 20% automatically puts in 18% gratuity as it is, so it would be in line with that. Basically, meals would be tax free. I hope this is only for sit down meals. Like if I get something from a bar or at a counter service restaurant.

I need to staple my DDE card to my forehead. I forgot to use it in Epcot at the margarita stand in Mexico and beer from England as well as the All Star Sports food court. Missed out on some savings there. :x

the CM discount of 20% automatically puts in 18% gratuity as it is, so it would be in line with that. Basically, meals would be tax free. I hope this is only for sit down meals. Like if I get something from a bar or at a counter service restaurant.

We need to get to the bottom of that issue! :woot: Think of the fall out!

Seriously, that is a good question. When are they threatening this going into effect?

.....
The Dark Side of the Force is a pathway to many abilities some consider to be ...unnatural.

the CM discount of 20% automatically puts in 18% gratuity as it is, so it would be in line with that. Basically, meals would be tax free. I hope this is only for sit down meals. Like if I get something from a bar or at a counter service restaurant.

We need to get to the bottom of that issue! :woot: Think of the fall out!

Seriously, that is a good question. When are they threatening this going into effect?

I'm glad Disney is finally making it more convenient to purchase and obtain a card.

Beginning on November 12, the Disney Dining Experience card can be purchased at a Disney Guest Service location. Annual Passholders and/or Florida Residents will need to provide proof of eligibility. Note that Disney Dining Experience membership requires that you be age 21 or older.

I forgot to post here. On my recent trip two weeks ago, I used the DDE card for valet at Boardwalk and Polynesian and each time I flashed the DDE card and got valet for free (well, plus tip). So I valeted 3 times so saved $30 right there.

Well, I guess we knew it was coming, but I'm still not happy about it.

From DDE Office:
We would like to inform you that the Walt Disney WorldŽ Resort will be implementing an across property policy change regarding gratuity at all food and beverage locations. Effective January 1, 2008, 18% gratuity will be added to all transactions, regardless of party size. Thank you for your continued support.

Cheers!

The Disney Dining Experience Team

The one point about this note is that it does not really say if it is for DDE customers only. I can't imagine everyone would be required to pay the 18% gratuity. :?

the 18% is for DDE only by the way, and you can write and call for refunds, although DDE is saying "no refunds". Unfortunately, this amounts to a service charge for anyone using DDE, which isn't considered a 'benefit/plan change'.

the 18% is for DDE only by the way, and you can write and call for refunds, although DDE is saying "no refunds". Unfortunately, this amounts to a service charge for anyone using DDE, which isn't considered a 'benefit/plan change'.

Agree...Just the way it is worded was unclear. This was rumored to happen back in August when some of the DDP changes were officially announced for 2008.

I also agree that this is more like a service charge and not a gratuity. I guess there really isn't much of a change. You had to tip anyway.